FrederickM.Braunstein

Dr. Frederick M. Braunstein MELROSE - Dr. Frederick M. Braunstein, 59, passed away on Thursday, March 14, 2013 at his home surrounded by his loved ones. Born in Chicago, Illinois he was the son of the late Dr. Leonard Braunstein and Barbara Abbey Braunstein. Raised and educated in Vineland, New Jersey, he was a graduate of Vineland High School. Fred attended the University of Rochester where he received his Bachelor of Science in Biology and graduated Phi Beta Kappa and Magna Cum Laude. After graduating from Rochester, Fred went on to study Medicine at Rutgers Medical School then Albert Einstein College of Medicine, where Fred received his Doctor of Medicine. Upon his graduation from Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Fred was accepted into Downstate Medical Center where he was Chief Resident of Internal Medicine during his medical residency. Once he completed his residency, Fred then completed his Fellowship of Gastroenterology at Boston University Medical Center. In 1985, Fred started his own medical practice, Upstate Gastroenterology Associates in Troy. Fred was a member of many professional organizations; American College of Physicians, American Gastroenterology Association, American Medical Association, New York State Medical Society, Rensselaer County Medical Society and American Society of Internal Medicine. Other achievements include positions as Clinical Assistant Professor for Albany Medical College (1984-present), Chief, Division of Gastroenterology at Samaritan Hospital (1997-present), President of Rensselaer County Medical Society (2002-2004), Chief, Division of Internal Medicine at Samaritan Hospital (1990-1996) and President of Samaritan Hospital Medical Staff (1993). Fred was on the medical staff of Samaritan Hospital for 28 years and was honored in 2009 by the Patient Division of Northeast health with the Founder's Award. When he wasn't practicing medicine, Fred loved to fly his single engine, Bonanza airplane all over the country. He was a private pilot and a member of the Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association for 19 years. He was a flight instructor for 13 of those years. When he was not flying his plane, Fred enjoyed the outdoors, where he indulged in many activities including hiking, biking, sking and kayaking; he was full of life and adventure and lived life to the fullest. Survivors include his loving wife Wendy, his two children, Laura Braunstein (Scott Freiberg), of Manhattan, Eric Braunstein of Manhattan (Columbia Medical School), his three stepchildren, Angela Fuller (Kevin) of Brunswick, Vincent Laviano and Nicholas Laviano both of Troy, his brother Dr. Steven Braunstein (Pam) of New Jersey, two sisters Susan Amsel (Don) of Massachusetts, Marcy Braunstein (George Gawrys) of New Jersey, several nieces and nephews. In addition to his family, Fred also leaves behind a lifelong, loving friend and partner, Dr. William Robinson and many close, loving colleagues and friends, he will be missed greatly. Donations in memory of Dr. Frederick Braunstein to benefit Samaritan Hospital can be made in care of Northeast Health Foundation, 2224 Burdett Avenue, Troy, NY 12180, would be appreciated. A private gathering will be planned at a later date. To light a candle and offer words of condolences please visit www.mcloughlinmason.com